Cleaning and MaintenanceWhen it comes to carpet appearance, a regular and proper cleaning and maintenance program is just as important as specifying carpet color, pattern, density and fiber. Like many of today's consumer products, carpet can have a long life if properly cared for and maintained. Generally speaking, carpet can last from seven to 12 years. CRI has looked at several studies that compare initial cost, plus installation and maintenance of various flooring options in schools . These studies are based on school installations where wear is constant and hard, and where the recommended maintenance procedures have been used and the appropriate commercial carpet and commercial vinyl composition tile (VCT) products were selected at the time of installation. They found that while upfront purchase and installation costs are more expensive for carpet than hard flooring, carpet expenditures prove to be more cost-effective over the full life of the product. The most current Floor Covering Installation Cost Comparison is based on 22 years of service, comparing carpet and VCT per square foot. To see how carpet compares to VCT download this PDF Carpets are more stain resistant than ever, making them easier to clean and maintain. However, maintaining the life and beauty of carpet depends on several factors: the quality of products and equipment used to clean carpets; the frequency and methods by which carpets are cleaned; and the skill and knowledge of the people doing the cleaning. MANDATING USE OF SEAL OF APPROVAL PRODUCTS
States and school districts are recognizing the value of using effective cleaning products and are beginning to mandate use of these products. New York State recommends use of CRI Seal of Approval/Green Label vacuums in all of its school districts and Illinois also recommends Seal of Approval products in all state facilities. In Georgia, Dalton schools require Seal of Approval products in cleaning and maintenance programs. Download Five Steps to Well-Maintained Carpet in Schools
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